If you’re facing a layover or delay, knowing what to expect can make the wait feel more manageable. These are some practical things to do at London Heathrow Airport, whether you want a proper meal, a bit of shopping, a short escape into the city, or simply a more comfortable place to rest. Heathrow is large and busy, but with a little planning, you can make decent use of your time here without setting expectations too high.
1. Enjoy a meal
Food options at London Heathrow are generally better than average for a major airport, with a noticeable British and European influence alongside familiar international chains. Choices vary by terminal, but you’ll often find sit-down restaurants, cafés, and pub-style dining rather than just fast food.
Travellers looking to try something local may enjoy a meal at one of the airport pubs, where classic options like fish and chips, pies, or a full English breakfast are commonly available. Wagamama is a popular choice for noodle and rice dishes inspired by Asian flavours, while Gordon Ramsay Plane Food offers a more polished, modern British menu for those willing to spend a bit more. Fortnum & Mason-branded cafés and bars reflect the famous London department store and are a good place to sample traditional teas, pastries, or small plates.
For something quick and familiar, Pret A Manger is widespread and well known for sandwiches, salads, and coffee, making it a reliable option when time or energy is limited. Prices across the airport are high, but food quality is generally consistent, and it’s usually possible to find something suitable whether you want a sit-down meal or a quick bite.
2. Relax in a lounge
Even if you’re flying economy, you may be able to access an airport lounge by purchasing a day pass or using a lounge membership program. Lounges offer a quieter place to sit, along with food, drinks, Wi-Fi, and sometimes showers. Availability and quality vary by terminal, and lounges can fill up during peak hours, but they can be a worthwhile upgrade if you’re feeling worn down. For specific locations and access rules, see our London Heathrow Airport Guide.
3. Shop
Shopping at Heathrow is spread across all terminals, with many stores duplicated so you don’t need to change terminals to browse. The selection leans heavily toward duty-free goods, fashion, and travel essentials, making it more useful for last-minute purchases than destination shopping.
Travellers looking for local or distinctly British products will find a good range of whisky, gin, and shortbread, along with teas, chocolates, and packaged treats that work well as souvenirs. Heathrow is also known for its strong duty-free alcohol selection, particularly Scotch whisky, with both well-known and premium bottles available. Bookshops and newsagents are easy to find for magazines, snacks, and travel basics.
Terminal 5 generally has the widest range of higher-end boutiques, while other terminals focus more on practical shopping. Overall, shopping is a decent way to pass time or pick up gifts, though bargains are limited and prices reflect the airport setting.
4. Take a shower
A shower can make a big difference on a long layover. At Heathrow, showers are primarily available inside airport lounges, either included with lounge access or as part of a paid entry. Availability depends on the terminal and time of day, so it’s best to check ahead.
5. Head into London
If you have a long layover and meet entry requirements, heading into London can be a worthwhile break from the terminal. Aim for at least six hours between flights to allow enough time for travel, light sightseeing, and a stress-free return to the airport.
Getting into central London is relatively straightforward. The Heathrow Express is the fastest option, reaching Paddington Station in about 15 minutes, though it is also the most expensive. The London Underground offers a much cheaper alternative and runs directly from the airport, but travel time is closer to an hour depending on your destination. Taxis are available but can be slow and costly due to traffic.
Once in the city, areas like Westminster are compact and easy to explore on foot, with landmarks such as Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, and the Thames nearby. Museums including the British Museum, Tate Modern, and Victoria and Albert Museum are popular stops, many with free entry. If you prefer something simpler, a short walk followed by a meal or drink at a traditional pub can still make the trip feel worthwhile without rushing.
For more suggestions, check out our London Heathrow Airport Sightseeing article or visit Tripadvisor for more things to do in London.
5. Get connected
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout London Heathrow, making it easy to message family, check flights, or pass the time online. Public internet kiosks have existed in the past, but availability can vary by terminal and over time, so travellers should not rely on them as a primary option.
7. Sleep
Sleeping at Heathrow during the day is usually possible, though noise and foot traffic can be an issue. Overnight conditions vary by terminal and by how busy the airport is. Some terminals quiet down significantly late at night, but lighting often stays bright and comfortable sleeping spots are limited.
Reports from travellers suggest that overnight access rules may differ between terminals, with some restrictions on where passengers can remain airside. Seating availability also varies, and privacy is limited in most areas. Bringing an eye mask and earplugs can help if you plan to stay inside the terminal.
If sleeping in the terminal doesn’t appeal to you, Heathrow offers several hotel options that provide a more reliable rest. Aerotel London Heathrow has rooms located inside the airport, making it a convenient choice for short stays between flights. Rooms can be booked in blocks of hours or overnight, which works well for long layovers or delayed connections.
For a more traditional hotel experience, the Sofitel London Heathrow is directly connected to Terminal 5 by a covered walkway, allowing easy access without needing transport. It offers standard hotel rooms, dining options, and a quieter environment than the terminal. Additional airport hotels are located nearby and can be reached by shuttle or a short ride, but Aerotel and Sofitel are the most convenient for travellers who want to stay close to their terminal. For locations and details, see our London Heathrow Airport Guide.
Updated 09 January 2026
These are just a few things to do on a layover at London Heathrow Airport. Visit our London Heathrow Airport Guide for more information about services and facilities, such as food, WiFi, mobile charging, luggage storage, nearby airport hotels, and much more.